In the country for the Suzuki Gixxer tour, two-time European Stunt Riding Winner Aras Gibieza tells Shrabasti Mallik about his dangerous stunts and his love for bikes
Some are in love with their bikes. To them, these automobiles are their mean machines — good for showing off and garnering some impressions. But there are very few whose love for two-wheelers takes them an all new level and Aras Gibizea is one of them. He is a two-time European Stunt Riding winner and is also a Red Bull athlete. Excerpts from an interview:
You have been to India last year for the Bike Week Tour. How does it feel to be back for the Suzuki Gixxer Day tourIJ
I am very excited to be back in India. Coming to this country is always a big adventure for me. And this time Suzuki is the partner for my tour, which I am very happy about.
I will also be in India for the Wings for life World Run — a global run taking place simultaneously across 34 locations worldwide — in Ahmedabad on May 8.
Tell us about your fascination with bikes.
I got my first scooter at the age of 10. When I turned 16, I got my first bike. And at 18 I got my first stunt bike. Since then there was no looking back for me. I always wanted to ride, and now I do it all across the world.
Did you receive any professional trainingIJ
Yes, training is very important in this sport. However, in stunt biking there is no professional coach to train you yet – you have to train yourself. That is what I have been doing for years now.
What is your bike of choiceIJ
As a part of my current tour I am using Suzuki GSX-S 1000. It has a very good centre of weight. And has a pretty good balance of weight and power.
What are your trademark stuntsIJ
Two of my trademark tricks include ‘Switch back wheelie’ and ‘Stoppie 360’. These are some of the tricks that only I can perform.
What is the most daring stunt you have ever done and whereIJ
Riding on top of a 25 floor building in lithuania in 2013.
nStunts are risky and involve a lot of injuriesIJ Have you had any accident so farIJ
I always wear my gear and do a good warm up before riding. I have had a few accidents. I had broken my wrist and leg. Surprisingly, after one week I performed in a competition in lithuania and grabbed the first place.
What do you perceive of stunt biking in IndiaIJ
last year during my India tour, I saw a lot of stunt riders in India. I spoke to them about their routine and practice. I think in the future India is going to have a bright chance at stunt riding globally.